Dementia activist Joy Watson honoured by University of Salford
Friday 22 July 2016
A woman with early onset dementia has been awarded an honorary degree from the University of Salford.
Dementia activist Joy Watson, 57, was cheered by graduates and staff as she was formally made an Honorary Doctor of the University by Vice-Chancellor Professor Helen Marshall.
Currently an associate of the highly reputable Salford Institute for Dementia at The University of Salford, Joy works tirelessly to raise awareness of young onset dementia.
As she collected her award, Joy said: “I was amazed to be told that this honorary doctorate would be given to me. Coming from a very poor background I hardly knew what a University was.
“My involvement with Salford University has been a lifesaver. Being so involved with the dementia institute has given me a purpose, and a sense of belonging again. I hope to continue working here at the University for many years to come”.
Joy developed dementia in her early 40s, and received the diagnosis of early onset dementia three years ago. She is currently an associate of the Salford Institute for Dementia at The University of Salford, and works tirelessly to raise awareness of early onset dementia.
Chair of the Salford Institute for Dementia at the University of Salford, the Rt Hon Hazel Blears, said: “Joy is an inspiration to everyone she meets. Her determination to be a voice for people living with dementia shines out.
“She has challenged the status quo and has achieved real improvements in services especially for younger Joys. Her and husband Tony make a brilliant team and deserve this honour from Salford so much.”
Joy has been awarded an honorary degree for her commitment to changing the future for dementia patients. Before she accepted her award, Joy had thanked her husband Tony for his continued support, saying that she “didn’t know where she would be”, if it wasn’t for him.
Joy accepted her honorary doctorate during the Graduation Ceremony for the School of Health Sciences.
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